Nov 27, 2023

Motor oil performs a number of vital tasks that keep your engine healthy. Not only does oil lubricate the moving parts and keep friction to a minimum, but it also cleans the engine and protects against acid and corrosion. However, when motor oil gets old, it starts to lose its lubricating, cleaning, and protective properties and your engine suffers as a result. Here are the main signs that you need to visit your Chevy dealer for an oil change soon.

5 Signs Your Chevy Needs an Oil Change

Your Oil Is Low in Volume

When you use the dipstick to check the level of your oil, if it’s lower than the “safe” level marked on the dipstick, have the oil topped up or changed at once. Oil tends to reduce in volume over time because of the engine’s heat. A leak somewhere might also be causing the oil level to fall. If the level of your oil diminishes at a surprising rate, have a technician check the pistons, valve, and pan for signs of a leak.

Your Oil Has Become Thick and Dirty

While checking your oil, also pay attention to its color and consistency. When in good condition, motor oil is translucent yellow, smooth, and runny.

As it ages, degrades, and collects contaminants from the engine, motor oil darkens and becomes thicker, grainier, and dirtier. While a darkened hue alone doesn’t necessarily mean that motor oil can’t function well, a thickened, grainy quality usually means it’s time to refresh it.

Your Engine Starts Making Strange Noises

As motor oil worsens in quality, friction rises and the moving mechanical parts inside the engine get noisier. So any unusual knocking, grinding, or ticking sounds from the engine may well indicate that the motor oil is low or degraded and needs to be refreshed.

You Smell Something Burning From Inside the Cabin

When motor oil gets old and friction rises, heat steadily increases inside the engine, which often generates a burning smell. Leaking motor oil might also cause a distinctive burning smell that the driver can detect from inside the car’s cabin.

You’re Scheduled for Oil Servicing at Your Chevy Dealer

The surest way to keep your oil in great condition at all times is to schedule routine servicing visits at your local dealership. You’ll then receive reminders whenever it’s time to refresh your motor oil. The sticker on the inside of your driver-side windshield will also remind you of the upcoming date, helping to ensure you never forget to refresh your oil on time.

Have your motor oil checked and refreshed today at Park Hills Chevy. Our dealership provides a local one-stop shop for all Chevy purchasing, maintenance, and servicing needs.